EMPOWERING NEWS AND events

The inaugural AFL Tri-Series Tournament, held in Cairns from August 29 to September 1, 2024, successfully united over 150 young athletes from diverse communities, including Papua New Guinea and Torres Strait Islander groups. This event not only showcased competitive AFL but also emphasised health education and cultural exchange through programs designed by AFL Cape York and extended partners. Key outcomes included increased awareness of sexual and mental health issues among participants and strengthened community bonds. The tournament highlighted the power of sport as a catalyst for change, fostering connections and promoting vital life skills. Looking ahead, recommendations include expanding health education initiatives and enhancing cultural exchange activities for future events.

We are thrilled to announce that the Grass Skirt Project has been awarded a USD 10,000 grant from the International Olympic Committee’s Olympism365 Innovation Hub as part of the Ignite365 Awards! This recognition highlights our commitment to driving social change through sport in Papua New Guinea, particularly in advancing gender equality.

The 2023 Hevea Cup & Wellness Expo successfully combined sports and health initiatives to engage youth in Papua New Guinea, attracting over 2,120 participants. The event featured a Rugby League 9s tournament and a wellness expo, emphasising education on critical health issues. Key findings showed that 89% of attendees learned something new, with 73% reporting positive behavioural changes. This innovative approach not only promotes grassroots sports development but also addresses gender-based violence and public health challenges, positioning the Hevea Cup as a vital platform for community empowerment and social change.

The 10 Million Strong Leadership Program is making substantial progress in combating gender-based violence (GBV) and fostering gender equality among Papua New Guinea's youth. By integrating sports, especially rugby, the program teaches essential lessons on equality and respect.

The Grass Skirt Project (GSP) 2023 Annual Report highlights significant achievements in promoting gender equality and community health in Papua New Guinea. Key initiatives include the 10 Million Strong Leadership Program, which engaged over 15 youths in leadership development, and the Hevea Cup & Wellness Expo, attracting over 2,500 participants and providing vital health education.

For Kalane's teams, the Hevea Cup offered a clear purpose in the six months leading up to the tournament. It wasn't just a game for them; it symbolised hope for a better life, where team roles were defined, goals were achievable, and individuals found purpose, connection, and growth, even among the unemployed and disenfranchised.

Discover how the Grass Skirt Project in Papua New Guinea is using sports to combat gender-based violence and promote equity. Founder Tahina Booth's initiative empowers youth, challenges societal norms, and fosters respect. Learn more about this impactful program on ABC's "That Pacific Sports Show" and catch the inspiring video on ABC iview. Together, we can drive positive change through sports.

Breaking Barriers: Our Managing Director Tahina Booth Featured for Fundraising Success

The 10 Million Strong Leadership program at Badihagwa Secondary School successfully instigated transformative shifts in students' perceptions of health, leadership, and gender equality. Participants exhibited enhanced knowledge on holistic health practices, embraced leadership roles with increased confidence, and demonstrated a positive evolution in attitudes towards gender equality.

My personal journey into this narrative began in childhood, a harrowing experience that is all too common and indicative of a broader societal failure.